SURFING GUIDE
SURFING GUIDE
20 minute read
Last updated June 5th, 2020
By: Mikael and Thrillism
Very few surfing destinations around the world compare to the Island of the Gods. The waves in Bali, Indonesia are glorious, but a must-visit surfing destination is about more than just the quality of the wave-riding. Bali’s got everything you could ever need for an epic surf adventure.
Rich culture, amazing food, impressive rice terraces, monkey forests, scooter adventures, peaceful vibes (or party vibes if that’s what you’re into)… Bali’s got it all. Just don’t let the small size of this island fool you. You’ll start to see just how lively and expansive it is as you browse around for the best surf camps in Bali.
Before you land one of the top-rated surf camps in Bali, it’s a good idea to do some research on each area of the island. Some surfers say that Canggu is where it’s at, but others will tell you that there’s no place like Uluwatu. Each area has it’s own unique vibe, so think about that before booking your Bali surf camp.
Now keep in mind that these are just a few of the best surf camps in Bali – there are dozens to choose from. The key to booking the perfect Bali surfing adventure is to focus on the area that’s right for you, and from there see what each surf camp in that area has to offer.
Medewi Beach is a bit of an under-the-radar spot when compared to Ulu and Padang, but it’s no less impressive. If you’re looking for something more remote and less touristy than the southern Bali surfing destinations, Medewi is the place for you. It’s all about immersing yourself in the scenic nature of Bali, but it might not remain Bali’s best-kept secret for much longer.
Since the area isn’t known for its beginner-level waves, Keramas Surf Resort doesn’t specialize in intensive training camps. However, you can still sign up for lessons or head out on surfing excursions with local guides. This place is the epitome of luxury with 4 and 5-star rooms and a Beach Club that was voted one of the best in all of Asia.
“Beachfront accommodation set on the lush and unspoiled East Coast of Bali, the resort is blessed with a hypnotizing view right in front of the world-famous Keramas break.”
– Nomad Surfers
Medewi Beach is a bit of an under-the-radar spot when compared to Ulu and Padang, but it’s no less impressive. If you’re looking for something more remote and less touristy than the southern Bali surfing destinations, Medewi is the place for you. It’s all about immersing yourself in the scenic nature of Bali, but it might not remain Bali’s best-kept secret for much longer.
Brown Sugar is the only Bali surf camp that is located directly on Medewi Beach. It’s a tranquil oasis that was created by surfers, for surfers. Unlike so many other Bali surf camps, Brown Sugar isn’t concerned with providing its guests with a party atmosphere. It’s all about enjoying world-class surf while surrounding yourself with good company.
“Our retreat is located in Medewi, an idyllic fishing village on Bali’s west coast, far away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta’s overcrowded surf spots.”
– Brown Sugar Surf
Padang Padang is just north of Uluwatu, so visitors will get the chance to experience the same pounding surf. It’s also located on the Bukit Peninsula and it consists of two famous breaks – a challenging left break for pros and a more gentle right break for beginners, but there are plenty more waves to try out in the area (including Uluwatu).
If you’re anything short of an expert surfer, you’ll want to stay away from Padang Padang Left. This reef break is all about tubes, height, and speed, requiring a lot of skill to even attempt. The water here is shallow with jagged rocks and sharp corals. New and intermediate surfers tend to stick to Padang Padang Right, a beach break that is just as fun but way less intense.
This surf camp was the winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2019, so that should give you an idea of its amazingness. Some even say it’s the best surf camp in Bali, but that’s for you to decide. Even though some of the nearby breaks aren’t suitable for new wave riders, this camp caters to all surfing levels, even if you’ve never ridden a surfboard.
“We will take care of everything for you so you can spend the maximum time in the water surfing Bali’s world-famous, and some lesser-known Bali surf breaks.”
– Padang Padang Surf Camp
For new and intermediate level surfers, PPSC offers groups and private lessons. Advanced surfers are paired up with local guides to explore the best Balinese breaks, all while offering tips on wave selection and positioning techniques. Oh, and did we mention that there are luxury accommodations, locally-sourced meals, and options for yoga/surf retreats?
Awwww, Ulu. We’ve got a lot to say about you, but we’ll try to keep it brief. This is the premier spot on the Island of the Gods for more advanced-level surfers, so beginners might want to look elsewhere for more forgiving waves to ride.
The name Uluwatu literally translates to land’s end rock, a perfect description of the towering cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. Uluwatu is located at the southwestern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, which is one reason that it’s the prime location for heavy-breaking waves.
The entire Uluwatu reef is comprised of 5 epic surfing peaks, including Temples, The Bombie, The Peak, Outside Corner, and Racetracks. If you’re up for a challenge and looking for an Ulu Bali surfing camp, you’ll have plenty of chances to hit up all of these Bali surf spots.
Dreamsea has two locations on the island, one in Canggu and one in Ulu. More advanced surfers tend to gravitate towards the Uluwatu location while beginners prefer Dreamsea in Canggu. The Ulu camp is within easy reach of the best breaks in the area, even some that are within walking distance.
“Our surf camp in Bali is the perfect place for couples, friends and solo travelers. For those who love the ocean and the beach and like to hear it from their beds.”
– Dreamsea Surf Camp
The one-of-a-kind accommodations are located on the top of the Ulu cliffs, overlooking the waves that you’ll soon be conquering. You can either book per night and pay for surf lessons, yoga classes, and accommodation as you go, or go all out with the 8-day, 7-night Dreamsea surf camp.
Canggu is often called one of the “digital nomad capitals of the world”, mainly because it’s an easy place for nomadic globetrotters to settle down. But that’s not the only reason so many online workers gravitate here. Canggu is the perfect place to catch a wave in between your work sessions at a local coworking space.
This hip beach town has great surf, amazing restaurants, and it’s easy to live like a king here. If you’re looking for chill vibes, go right ahead and attend yoga classes, eat organic locally grown food, and find your inner zen out on the water. If you’re looking for a more social party scene, you’ve also got that option in Canggu.
Kima has been going strong in Bali since 1995. With 5 schools located throughout the island, it can be difficult to decide on the perfect Kima surf camp for you. But trust us when we say that you can’t go wrong with the Canggu location. The Canggu resort is basically right on the beach with several first-class beach breaks right outside the doors.
“Our surf hotels in Bali feature everything from the classic dorm to luxurious villas and suites – all to make you feel right at home while you aren’t out surfing the Bali waves!”
– Kima Surf School
When you book the 7-day Kima camp, you get surf guiding, yoga sessions, airport transfers, all transportation, daily breakfast, and more. The rooms are absolutely stunning with a modern twist on classic Balinese style design. You can do this on a budget or go all out with one of the Deluxe luxury Kima villas.
Nusa Dua isn’t too far from Uluwatu – it’s located just on the opposite side of the Bukit Peninsula. The area is more resort-y than other Bali surfing spots, making it the prime destination for families, luxury seekers, and honeymooners. There’s no party scene here, but the Nusa Dua waves will keep you plenty busy.
Surf Paradise is the ultimate Nusa Dua surf camp Bali has to offer, especially for beginner surfers. The school specializes in group and private lessons, they’ll even pick you up from your lodging to make things as convenient as possible. Keep in mind that this is not an all-inclusive camp, it serves solely as a school (you’ll have to book accommodations separately).
“We offer private surf school or semi-private surf lesson…Surf guiding service is available for those who want to surf but just don’t know where to go.”
– Surf Paradise
Some of the best surf camps Bali has to offer are located in Kuta – but there’s just one thing you should know about the area before booking your camp. Kuta is one of the main party destinations on the island, so if you’re traveling with the fam or looking for peace and quiet, maybe set your sights elsewhere.
That being said, Kuta is a fun destination with plenty of opportunities for beginners to improve their new skills. There are some big waves and powerful swells here, but for the most part, Kuta is recommended as the prime beginner-spot for surfers. But don’t get us wrong, there are plenty of breaks along Kuta Beach that will test your skills.
At Endless Summer Surf Camp, it’s all about the vibes. But good vibes aren’t the only reason so many surfers are choosing Endless Summer. The camp is located about 100 meters from Kuta Beach, right in the heart of the town’s nightlife scene. You literally don’t have to worry about a thing with ESSSC, they’ll take care of everything from picking you up at the airport to managing your surfing program.
“Everything you need for the best vacay is just in front of your doors – perfect waves suitable for everyone, sunset bars with local live bands and cold beers, a bunch of restaurants around.”
– Endless Summer
